Medford council takes another step to block pot dispensaries

A moratorium against medical marijuana dispensaries in Medford was approved by the City Council Thursday.

A moratorium against medical marijuana dispensaries in Medford was approved by the City Council Thursday.

The ordinance, which must have a second reading before it is adopted, is an attempt to strengthen the city's legal standing against issuing business licenses to dispensaries, which are now allowed under state law.

"Everything is happening very quickly at the state, and we didn't want to miss the boat," city attorney John Huttl told council members today.

The Legislature could enact Senate Bill 1531, which would give local governments the option to pass a one-year moratorium on dispensaries. The council's ordinance anticipates the passage of SB 1531."We want to give John (Huttl) another arrow in his quiver," Councilor Tim Jackle said.

In 2013, the city passed an ordinance effectively banning dispensaries based on federal laws making marijuana possession illegal.

Based on that ban, the city has attempted to revoke the business license of Mary Jane's Attic and Mary Jane's Basement in the Winco shopping center.

Mary Jane's has appealed the attempt to revoke the license, and its owners have vowed to take the issue to court if necessary.